See: Service Station.

An open structure, usually in the garden of a “summer house” where one may sit and enjoy the view. Also called a belvedere.

See: Growing Equity Mortgage.

A designation awarded by the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS to a member who is a state certified General Appraiser and has the required additional experience and tested education.

In condemnation, benefits accruing to property not taken, but which benefits are caused by the taking.

One who contracts for the construction of an entire building or project, rather than for a portion of the work. The general contractor hires subcontractors, such as plumbing contractors, electrical contractors, etc., coordinates all work, and is responsible for payment to the said subcontractors.

A title insurance company term for the books used to find liens against individuals which may effect real property, but which are not recorded against the property being insured, such as liens against a buyer.

(1) A lien such as a tax lien or judgment lien which attaches to all property of the debtor rather than the lien of, for example, a trust deed, which attaches only to specific property. (2) The right of a creditor to hold, personal property of a debtor for payment of a debt not associated with the property being held. Must be done under an agreement since against general precepts of law.

See: Blanket Mortgage.

See: Indirect Construction Cost.

A member of a partnership who has authority to bind the partnership and shares in the profits and losses. A partnership must have at least one general partner and may have more, as well as limited partners.

A partnership made up of general partners, without special (limited) partners. See also: Limited Partnership; Partnership.

See: Master Play.

Restrictions imposed on an entire subdivision, usually by the developer. Also called a declaration of restrictions.

See: Power of Attorney (1).

A conveyancing instrument under which the grantor assumes liability for defects of title. Not needed when title insurance is purchased.

Accounting methods approved by the accounting profession and required in audits and reporting.

A network of bench marks (surveyor’s marks), located by longitude and latitude, covering the entire country. Originally, this system was used to locate federally owned land, and has since been extended nation-wide.

A colonial style of architecture dating back to the eighteenth century. Characterized by first floor windows extending to the ground, its exterior placements (windows, doors, etc.) are simple and well balanced, yet formal in appearance.

A more formal and elaborate form of Georgian Architecture.

To divide an area into districts, against the obvious natural divisions, in order to accomplish an unlawful purpose. For example: To divide a school district to keep out certain people for reasons of race or religion; to divide a political voting district as to give power to a political party.